People living in parts of south west London might notice a change to their cups of tea or the softness of their hair when washed.

Residents in several areas supplied by Cheam Treatment Works, including Sutton, Cheam, Worcester Park, Ewell, Morden, Carshalton, Carshalton Beeches, and South Sutton, will experience higher-than-normal water hardness levels over the coming weeks.

Water hardness refers to the concentration of minerals, primarily calcium and magnesium, dissolved in water.

Higher levels of these minerals can lead to increased limescale buildup on fixtures and appliances, as well as a noticeable film on hot beverages like tea.

SES explained that increased hardness does not pose any health risks and that the water remains safe for all domestic uses, including drinking, cooking, and bathing.

The Cheam Treatment Works team hopes to restore normal water hardness levels as swiftly as possible.

A spokesperson for SES said: “The site team will be working hard to resolve the problem and we will confirm with you shortly when we are able to fully re-commence softening.”